"Ammonite," directed by Francis Lee, beautifully captures a love story between two women in 19th century England.
The film delves into the life of Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist, and her relationship with Charlotte Murchison. While it has gained notoriety for a certain scene, the film's depth and historical context go far beyond the headlines.
Mary Anning, portrayed by Kate Winslet, was a remarkable figure who began her paleontological journey at a tender age. She was just 11 years old when she made her first significant discovery: the complete skeleton of an ichthyosaur. Over the years, she unearthed the remains of a plesiosaur and a pterosaur, but faced discrimination due to her gender and social class. Anning's findings were celebrated by the scientific community, yet they initially omitted her name, a testament to the patriarchal and classist society of the 19th century.
Director Francis Lee, known for his previous work "God's Own Country" (2017), was drawn to Mary Anning's story when searching for a fossil as a gift. He was captivated by her achievements and resilience in a society that was dismissive of her talents. The film "Ammonite" was born from his curiosity and admiration for Anning's character.
Lee decided to infuse a romantic narrative into the life of Mary Anning, imagining a secret and forbidden relationship with Charlotte Murchison, portrayed by Saoirse Ronan. The story goes beyond the paleontologist's scientific endeavors and delves into her personal life. "Ammonite" explores the complexities of love and how relationships can shape one's identity.
The film's stars, Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan, invested significant time in developing their characters and building a strong on-screen connection. "We developed the characters together, we worked four or five months before filming," Lee reveals. The dedication of the actresses to their roles and their profound collaboration helped to infuse authenticity into the film's narrative.
While "Ammonite" received attention for its scenes, it is essential to understand that the film's essence is not reduced to these moments. Kate Winslet emphasizes that the story is not about sensationalizing romance. Instead, it portrays love in a subtle and nuanced manner. It delves into themes of self-discovery, human connection, and the profound impact of the relationships we choose to embrace.
"Ammonite" provides an look at the life of Mary Anning and her unconventional love story with Charlotte Murchison. It shines a light on the struggles of women in the 19th century and their resilience in the face of societal norms. Beyond its controversial scenes, the film offers a profound exploration of human emotions, identity, and the power of love, making it a must-watch for audiences seeking a deeper cinematic experience.
